Last week Elecraft announced the availability of a new product - the XG3 RF Signal Source:
The XG3 generates a square wave RF signal from 160-2 meters and can even produce signals into the microwave range (1.4 GHz) using harmonics. The band switches can be programmed by your PC to cover any specific frequency at 1 Hz resolution that you may need.
Most people will use the XG3 to perform receiver calibration, sensitivity
testing, and signal tracing. Because the unit measures only 2.5 x 4.4 x 0.9”, it's also useful outdoors for things like antenna evaluation, field strength measurements, micro-power beacons, etc. Powered by a 9v battery, the unit has 4 output power levels.
Using the software, you can program it to perform frequency sweeps, use it as a VFO or local oscillator for whatever project you're working on. Like most Elecraft products, the unit's firmware is also updateable.
I've also taken a look at the manual and was quite pleased at the instructions given to perform the most commonly used tasks. Reasonably priced at $169.95, this unit will cover quite a few needs for the operator that enjoys working on their own gear. More information can be found at Elecraft XG3 Signal Source.
